So, I had a very successful week in terms of project progress. I was able to finalize a design for my larger box, and assemble that almost entirely. I was also able to secure the light source that would be used to back light the box, since the light source will be separate from the physical box.
Overall, thinks ended up going very well once I was able to make some important decisions, and was then able to finally get everything together to make it work.
When in search of a light source, I was initially looking for a standing light bulb base, but actually ended up finding a clip-on, industrial light that points directly at the back of the box, making the light more direct. I was also able to get an “ultra-bright” bulb, which is about 810 lumens (but I think I may even get a brighter bulb).
If the brighter light bulb still isn’t bright enough to illuminate the project how you are envisioning maybe you can by string fairy lights and place them in between each layer in the gap on the bottom of the frame that way each layer will have its own light source.
If you are unable to find a brighter light, you could also may try cutting out designs in the bottom of the back pieces of paper so that the light will shine better through the front pieces. You could also try multiple lights from different angles too!
I remember you were saying you were considering cutting out some of the layers on the bottom to make it brighter. Maybe you can try that method on the smaller box if you end up making it.
You could try having multiple bulbs to make it brighter or creating a box /cone behind the light so all the light is focused towards the shadow box and diffuses less!
I recommend trying to find a flood light bulb. That’ll be the brightest thing you can find easily